Inside One LFS Newsletter - February 2024

LFS Launches Dana Village

Earlier this month, Lutheran Family Services, along with George Achola from Burlington Capital, the Mayor of Blair, Mindy Rupp, State Senator Ben Hansan, and Governor Jim Pillen welcomed a group of over 250 people as the ribbon was cut on the new Dana Village.

Dana Village is an innovative way to fight today’s grim statistics for young people who become homeless, pregnant, or incarcerated soon after leaving the foster care system. The Dana Village blueprint creates a life-long mentoring continuum from youth to seniors and solves issues along the social determinants of health – housing, employment, and physical and mental health.

The first step of LFS’s 10-year strategic plan is already in motion. Former Dana College dorm rooms will be transformed into apartments. The apartment rent is based on income, making it more affordable for kids transitioning from foster care to afford a safe place to live. In addition, the apartments will be available for low-income senior citizens.

Wrap-around Services for Dana Village Residents

In addition to offering an affordable place to live, LFS is working to provide wrap-around services to Dana Village residents. These will include:

Financial Counseling
Mental Health Services
Life Skill Services
Job Placement Assistance

Learn More and Get Involved

LFS is in the first stages of this project, and there are many opportunities to support us!

To donate, contact Ed Shada at (402) 630-5664, ed.shada@oneLFS.org.
To join our mailing list, email Dana@onelfs.org.
To find out about the program, contact Stephanie Gardeman, Director of Transitional Living stephanie.gardeman@onelfs.org.
To learn more about living on campus, go to danavillageblair.com.

Do You Have Your Ticket? Rally 4 Kids is March 7!

Rally for Kids is our chance to celebrate children and families. Grab some friends and join us for a casual evening of fun, inspiration, and impact!

Gourmet Concessions
Games
Raffle
Live auction
Performance by magician Ben Seidman

Get ready for a night of pure joy and magic. You’ll meet some amazing families and learn how LFS changes lives in our communities. It’s an evening you don’t want to miss!

Learn More